UK households risk £5,000 fine due to 'flower' rule in May heatwave

UK households face a £5,000 fine if they pick flowers this summer. As the weather ramps up with the temperatures rising through the gears towards the mid-twenties in a May heatwave, people picking wildflowers have been warned.

According to the experts at Eflorist, The Theft Act of 1968, states: “A person who picks mushrooms growing wild on any land, or who picks flowers, fruit or foliage from a plant growing on any land, does not (although not in possession of the land) steal what he picks unless he does it for reward or for sale or other commercial purpose.”

They went on and said as they warned Brits: “Figuring out whether a flower is endangered or not may be difficult at first glance, but a simple Google search for endangered flowers should do the trick. If you can’t find out, it’s not worth picking.

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“Flowers growing on roundabouts are grown and maintained by the council, so it’s also fully off-limits to pick them in these areas. By respecting public property, you can ensure that their environmental function is maintained whilst also not breaking any laws.

“You can also find a full list of the flowers that are illegal to pick. “If you can pick the flowers, don’t pick them all. It’s important to leave some flowers behind so they can thrive again and sustain their population.

“Remember the 20-flower rule - only pick one flower for every 20, and if there’s less than 20, don’t pick any at all.” They added: “When on private land, it’s important to take care of the environment. Avoid deliberately picking or destroying any flowers or wildlife, unless you have the land owner’s permission.

“More than often, there will be a sign in the area indicating that the land is privately owned. However, if you aren't sure, you can contact HM Land Registry to find out.”